Bears pick Charles Leno Jr. in 7th
May, 10, 2014
MAY 10
7:21
PM ET
By Michael C. Wright | ESPN.com
LAKE FOREST, Ill. -- The Chicago Bears wrapped up the NFL draft on Saturday by taking Boise State offensive tackle Charles Leno Jr. with their final pick, No. 246 overall.
My take: Although most of the spots -- including reserve roles -- are already set along the offensive line, the Bears could afford to use a pick on a developmental player such as Leno, who has impressive measurables and a thorough body of work in college as a three-year starter at Boise State.
Some scouts consider Leno a potential swing offensive tackle, but what’s encouraging about him is he’s still growing as a player. Despite immense athletic ability, good size, and explosion, Leno still hasn’t yet figured out how to put it all together. Chicago offensive coordinator Aaron Kromer has earned a reputation for developing late-round talent along the offensive line. So pairing the coach with Leno might turn him into a productive player that could eventually earn a role as a starter.
Leno played in 41 games at Boise State, and started in his last 39 outings. Leno started 26 contests at left tackle over his junior and senior seasons. As a sophomore, Leno started at right guard for 13 games. So he possesses the versatility general manager Phil Emery covets.
What’s more is Leno, as a starter, was responsible for 245 knockdown blocks, and 14 blocks that resulted in touchdowns in the running game.
Good company: Prior to Leno becoming the starter at left tackle in college, the last three starters at that position for Boise State were Daryn Colledge (2002-05), Ryan Clady (2006-07) and Nate Potter (2008-11). Colledge is a ninth-year veteran. Clady is a seventh-year veteran and three-time Pro Bowler. Potter, meanwhile, has started six games in three seasons with the Arizona Cardinals.
Hot damn now we're talkin. This is a sizzling low round pick that gives you hope. 6'4 300 lbs, sounds like a developmental guard.
